The Com: Inside the Growing Cybercrime Network Behind Recent Pornhub Hack

Uncover "the Com," a cybercrime network behind major hacks, targeting victims with ransomware, extortion, and chaos.

Dec 21, 2025

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A sprawling cybercrime network called "the Com" is behind recent high-profile hacks including Pornhub user data theft by ShinyHunters. The loose affiliation comprises thousands of mostly male English speakers aged 16-25, operating like a criminal pipeline where older members groom younger recruits.

The Com splits into three branches: Hacker Com (ransomware attacks on retailers like M&S), IRL Com (bomb threats and "swatting" incidents), and Extortion Com (targeting children for self-harm content). FBI investigations have increased six-fold since 2022, with over 250 active cases focusing on the most disturbing branch alone.

Members communicate via Discord and Telegram, motivated by status, misogyny, and causing chaos.

Source: The Guardian

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